AN emotional Andy Murray successfully defended his Brisbane International title yesterday and then dedicated the win to an ill friend.

Speaking on court after his 7-6, 6-4 victory over Bulgarian Grigor Dimitrov, a tearful Murray said: “I’d like to dedicate this victory to one of my best friends. He’s back home watching and you’re going to get through it.”

It is understood Murray, who was top seed in Brisbane, was talking about fellow British Davis Cup player Ross Hutchins, a long-time friend of the Scot who has revealed he is suffering from Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, a form of cancer.

The 27-year-old doubles specialist broke the news on Twitter, saying: “Unfortunately I will be away from tennis for a while as I was recently diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma.

“I am doing well, very positive with excellent medical support, friends and family around me.

“Looking forward to being back on the court soon!”

Messages of support flooded in for Hutchins, including from Lawn Tennis Association chief executive Roger Draper and Murray’s former coach Brad Gilbert.

In a message to Hutchins, Gilbert wrote: “This is an opponent I am sure you can beat.